Understand What Causes Your Beard to Thicken or Thin
Beard growth is a hereditary trait passed down from our ancestors. People are born with the same capability to grow their beards, but the thickness of the beard largely depends on the specific hairs on the face and how many times the hair follicles divide themselves during the growth cycle. Each person’s beard is an expression of their own genotype, much like the color of their eyes.
Beard growth is affected by hormones, nutrients and stress. The growth hormone testosterone stimulates facial hairs to grow and increases the number of hairs per follicle, which makes the beard appear thicker. Vitamin B and iron, found in dairy products, red meat, spinach and nuts, are essential for growing and maintaining a healthy, full beard – deficiency in them can contribute to thinning of the beard. Stress, on the other hand, stunts facial hair growth, so reducing it is an important step.
Up Your Intake of Healthy Nutrients
To give your beard the best chance of growing in full and healthy, it’s important to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet. Start by including omega-3 fatty acids and zinc in your diet. Omega-3 acids are found in foods like salmon, mackerel, sardines, chia seeds and flax seeds; while you can get zinc from eggs, seafood, walnuts, beef and lentils. Not only do these nutrients help to produce hairs, but they are also great for overall health and wellness.
You should also increase your intake of vitamins A,C, and E. These vitamins are full of antioxidants, which can help to protect hair follicles from damage and encourage growth. Vitamin A is found in sweet potatoes, carrots and spinach; vitamin C is found in oranges, kale and broccoli; and vitamin E is found in nuts, avocados and sunflower seeds.
Get Regular Scalp Massages and Brush Regularly
Massaging your scalp, particularly beneath the temples and around the cheeks, stimulates the hair follicles and promotes circulation. This can help to promote thicker facial hair. You can do a massage on a daily or weekly basis, or while you’re taking a shower. Regular brushing is also important. It can stimulate the scalp and increase the spread of healthy oils and nutrients which nourish the hairs and reduce hair loss. Use a beard brush or natural bristled brush and brush in both long strokes and circles, working your way up to the chin.
Try Natural Remedies
There are a number of natural remedies that you can try to help your beard grow fuller and thicker. One of these is the use of Castor Oil, which is known for its moisturizing and stimulating properties. Applying castor oil mixed with a few drops of coconut or almond oil on your beard can help to nourish the hairs and encourage new growth.
Another remedy is the use of Onion Juice. Applying the juice of onions on the scalp and facial hair can boost collagen production, reduce inflammation, and promote blood circulation. Do this every two to three days for a few weeks to see the effects.
Try Gentle Exfoliants
Exfoliating the skin helps to remove oils, residual skincare products, and other debris that can clog the hair follicles, hindering the growth of the facial hairs. Gentle exfoliation can help to unclog the follicles and promote healthier, thicker growth. Mix one part raw honey and one part sugar, then massage the mixture into your face using circular motions and rinse off with lukewarm water.
Manage Stress and Sleep Well
You have probably heard that too much stress isn’t good for anyone. But did you know that it can also affect the growth of your beard? Stress is one of the primary causes of thinning facial hair. So managing stress is a key part of growing a full and healthy beard. Make sure to get enough rest and take the time for relaxation.
The importance of getting quality sleep cannot be overstated. It is essential for overall health and wellness, but it is also important for facial hair growth. Your body repairs and regenerates while you sleep, so make sure you get at least 7–9 hours of sleep every night.
Choose the Right Beard Care Products
When growing out your beard, it is important to use the right products to help it grow in healthy and strong. Look for beard products that contain natural ingredients such as shea butter, jojoba oil, aloe vera, and other plant extracts which can nourish and protect the hairs.
Shampoos, conditioners and balms that are specifically designed for beards can help to keep the hairs hydrated and prevent them from becoming brittle and breaking off. A beard oil can also help to replenish the oils in your hair that can be depleted with regular washing.
Accept That Patience is Necessary
A lot of men have unrealistic expectations when it comes to growing a full and healthy beard. Growing a thick and full beard takes time. Some people will grow thick beards quickly; while others may take months or even years. Patience is key here.
Your beard is unique and changes over time. Embrace this growth phase and enjoy the journey. With a healthy diet and lifestyle, coupled with some patience, you will eventually get the beard of your dreams.
